Part 6/9:
Buffet chains clashed with a turn in public sentiment and health safety concerns in the wake of several high-profile food poisoning cases, leading to a national decline in buffet establishments. The COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the closure of many diners, delivered another crushing blow to the all-you-can-eat concept, as communal serving methods fell out of favor.
Shady Maple faced its own set of challenges during this period but found resilience in adapting to changes. With the introduction of a robust takeout model and a grocery store supplementing the buffet business, Shady Maple managed to stay afloat while other chains struggled.